Ida Tarbell was one of the leading muckraking investigative journalists from the Progressive Era during the late 19th, and early 20th centuries. She was a writer and journalist, whose work appeared in McClure's Magazine, Scribner's, and a great many more publications.

She was known for her extensive and comprehensive biographies of famous historical figures – such as Abraham Lincoln, and Napoleon Bonaparte. She was also known for her exposé 'The History of the Standard Oil Company', which had delved deep into the corrupt oil company, and oil tycoon John D. Rockefeller.

'The Life of Ida Tarbell' is a look into Tarbell's life – from her early years in the oil fields, to her writing career that spanned more than sixty years. Ida Tarbell is a fascinating historical figure, one who paved the way for investigative journalists more than a century later. She is a remarkable woman, who lived a full life.